Deal could give New York State power over hundreds of public authorities

Senate Committe on Corporations, Authorites and Commissions Chairman Bill Perkins' and Assembly Committe on Corporations, Authorites and Commissions Chairman Richard Brodsky's leadership in negotiations with Governor Paterson may lead to sweeping reforms of New York State's over 700 public authorities.

"When David was representing my district as a senator, he stood up on issues like this," Perkins said. "This would be a fulfillment of the things he stood for in past."

"There have been very productive and useful talks," said Marissa Shorenstein, the governor's spokeswoman. "They are working through those concerns."